Colts vs Lions Prediction & Betting Tips for NFL Preseason Week 3 on 8/29/2026

The Detroit Lions are set to take on the Indianapolis Colts in a preseason game at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 29, 2026, with kickoff at 1:00 PM. The game will be televised on NFLN, and the weather forecast predicts a mild day with scattered clouds, though the retractable roof may negate any impact wind might have on play.

Detroit, led by head coach Dan Campbell, enters this game with a preseason record of 1-1. Their recent performance includes a win over the Washington Commanders and a narrow loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. The Lions are looking to refine their strategies before the regular season begins, focusing on their offensive and defensive formations.

The Indianapolis Colts, coached by Shane Steichen, have had a challenging preseason so far with a record of 0-1-1. The Colts experienced a tough loss against the Atlanta Falcons and drew with the New England Patriots. With a home record of 6-3 last regular season, the Colts aim to use this home advantage to gain momentum as the preseason progresses.

With both teams eager to finalize their rosters and iron out any wrinkles, this game offers a valuable opportunity for players and coaches alike. The Lions are listed at +157 on the moneyline, while the Colts hold a -188 advantage, reflecting the expected competitiveness of this preseason matchup.

Colts vs Lions At a Glance (Preseason Week 3)

• The 2026 Preseason Week 3 game features the Detroit Lions visiting the Indianapolis Colts.
• The game takes place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN, which has a retractable roof.
• The Lions have a preseason record of 1-1-0, while the Colts are at 0-1-1.
• The weather forecast indicates scattered clouds with mild conditions, but weather should not impact play.
• The Colts are favored with a moneyline of -188, while the Lions are at +157.
• The game total is set at 36.0, with both over and under at -110.

The Indianapolis Colts: Gearing Up for the Lions Showdown

Offensive Overview

The Indianapolis Colts' offense last season was impressive, ranking 7th in scoring with an average of 27.4 points per game. They amassed 5,880 offensive yards, which placed them 9th overall. Their passing game contributed significantly, ranking 9th with 3,873 yards.

This preseason, the Colts are struggling offensively, averaging just 9.5 points per game and 259.5 yards per game. Their passing game has been less effective, with only 150.5 passing yards per game ranking them 23rd.

Defensive Outlook

In the 2025 season, the Colts' defense allowed 24.2 points per game, placing them 20th in the league. They struggled against the pass, giving up 4,215 passing yards, the 30th ranking overall. However, their rushing defense was a strength, holding opponents to 101.9 yards per game, 7th best in the league.

This preseason, the defense is still finding its footing, allowing 23.5 points per game and ranking 18th. Their pass defense shows some improvement, allowing 244.5 passing yards per game, 26th overall.

Key Players and Injuries

Anthony Richardson Sr. and Riley Leonard lead the quarterback position this preseason, with Richardson throwing for 169 yards over two games. Anderson Castle has been the standout in the backfield, rushing for 88 yards in two games.

Injuries impact the roster significantly with Alec Pierce (ankle) and Spencer Shrader (knee) out. Cam Taylor-Britt is also suspended for a game due to conduct violations.

Recent Preseason Games

The Colts faced the Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots in recent preseason games. They struggled against the Falcons at home, losing 34-6, with only 79 passing yards. Against the Patriots, they managed a 13-13 draw, improving with 222 passing yards and 133 rushing yards.

Defensive efforts were led by players like Cameron Ball, who registered a sack against the Falcons. Offensively, Anthony Richardson Sr. and Anderson Castle have shown potential despite the losses.

Betting Trends

• The Colts are 8-1 in Over/Under as favorites in their last 9 preseason games.
• They are 12-3 in Over/Under in all preseason games since 2021.
• In games with totals ≤ 42, the Colts are 12-3 in Over/Under over the last 15 preseason games.
• The Colts have a 7-1 record in Over/Under for away preseason games since 2021.
• As underdogs in preseason, they have gone 3-0 against the spread in their last 3 games.

Lions on the Prowl: Detroit's Upcoming Game Against the Colts

Quarterback Situation

The Detroit Lions' quarterback room in the 2026 preseason features Jared Goff as the starter, backed by Joshua Dobbs and Luke Altmyer. Goff's impressive 2025 regular season stats, including 4,564 passing yards and 34 touchdowns, make him a key player to watch. Dobbs and Altmyer have been sharing snaps in the preseason, with Altmyer throwing for 216 yards and one touchdown over two games.

While Goff did not feature in the first two preseason games, Dobbs and Altmyer provide depth and flexibility for the Lions. Altmyer has shown potential despite throwing two interceptions, which he will look to improve upon.

Running Back Depth

Jahmyr Gibbs leads the Lions' backfield after an exceptional 2025 season, where he rushed for 1,223 yards and scored 13 touchdowns. Gibbs offers a dual-threat capability, adding 616 receiving yards to his resume last season. However, Jacob Saylors has been the standout during the preseason, accumulating 87 rushing yards across two games.

Saylors' role could expand, especially with Raheem Blackshear sidelined for the season due to injury. The Lions may also turn to Isiah Pacheco for support in the running game.

Receiving Corps

Amon-Ra St. Brown continues to be a dominant force at receiver, after catching 117 passes for 1,401 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2025. Jameson Williams also adds firepower, with his 1,117 receiving yards and seven touchdowns last year. Injuries to Cedrick Wilson Jr. and Kendrick Law, both on injured reserve, may affect depth at the position.

Tom Kennedy and Isaac TeSlaa are expected to step up and provide depth. Kennedy has been involved in preseason action, while TeSlaa adds size and versatility to the unit.

Defensive Front

Aidan Hutchinson continues to anchor the defensive line. In 2025, the Lions' defense recorded 49 sacks, ranking fourth in the league. Hutchinson, along with D.J. Wonnum and Derrick Moore, adds significant pass-rushing capabilities.

The Lions' defense has been solid in the preseason, allowing only 14.5 points per game. The unit will aim to maintain this strong form against the Colts.

Injury Report

The Lions have been hit by injuries, with Cedrick Wilson Jr. and Raheem Blackshear both out for the season. Kerby Joseph is recovering from a knee injury, while Brian Branch is sidelined with a torn Achilles.

Cade Mays and Damone Clark are also unavailable, leaving gaps in the lineup. The Lions will need to rely on their depth to navigate these absences.

Betting Trends

• The Lions have hit the over in their last five home regular season games.
• In their last three preseason games after a win, they've gone over the total each time.
• As favorites in the last seven regular season games, they are 6-1 against the over.
• After a loss in the last eight preseason games, their record is 6-2 straight up.

Colts vs Lions Prediction: Colts -3.5

The Indianapolis Colts, coming off a loss and playing at home, are favored by 3.5 points against the Detroit Lions. With a strong home record of 6-3 from last regular season and a favorable preseason betting trend of 5-2 ATS after a loss, the Colts have a solid chance to cover the spread. Their ability to perform well at home should give them an edge.

The Lions, while having an equal 1-1 preseason record, have shown some inconsistencies on the road. Last season, they struggled with a 4-5 road record, and the Colts' home advantage could prove crucial. The Lions' weaker third-down percentage in the preseason could result in missed opportunities to score.

Considering the Colts' past performance as preseason favorites, their ATS record is encouraging for betting on them to cover. The trends show a consistent ability to outscore opponents when favored, which aligns with their high-ranking offensive stats from last season.

Projected to capitalize on their home field and past performance trends, the Colts are likely to secure a victory. The predicted score suggests a comfortable margin that covers the spread.

• Colts vs Lions Prediction: Colts -3.5
• Colts vs Lions Score: Colts 24 - Lions 17

Disclaimer: Knup Predictions are for entertainment and informational purposes only. Must be 21+ where applicable. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.